Short stories are excellent alternatives to chapter books for engaging reluctant readers- especially your middle school students whose attention can be harder to grab. These 81 short stories include favorites from well-known authors like Ray Bradbury, Edgar Allen Poe, and Jack London, as well as contemporary writers like Celest Ng and Cherie Dimaline. These stories spotlight voices and perspectives from different communities and are all available online to read for free. Read on to find the next compelling read for your class!
1. Plate of Peas by Rick Beyer
Dive into a playful reflection on childhood meals! An eight-year-old boy who hates peas forces himself to eat them at the promise of $5 from his grandmother. After this, he realizes that he has made a big mistake! This piece is sure to resonate with your kiddos who will do almost anything to avoid eating their greens.
Learn More: Rick Beyer
2. Valediction by Sherman Alexie
Take a look at consequences and expectations with this next story John and Pete play with fire when they keep stealing from a local shop. When John is caught Pete must make a choice- does he lie and get away with it, or does he tell the truth and risk his place on the football team? This tale is perfect for opening up discussions with your kids on doing the right thing and the consequences of their choices.
Learn More: YouTube
3. Eleven by Sandra Cisneros
Journey through the layers of young identity with your readers, as a girl grapples with emotions beyond her years. Rachel is celebrating her 11th birthday when her teacher unknowingly ruins it by making her responsible for a red sweater that Rachel knows isn’t hers. It’s a story that serves as a reminder that age is much more than a number.
Learn More: Mrs Flores
4. Lenses by Leah Silverman
Peer into perspectives and the simple things that make us unique. Corinne is conflicted, as she is about to perform surgery on her friend Grusha to replace her eyes with technologically advanced versions. Lenses is a futuristic deep dive for kiddos into the idea that in looking to become like others we lose what it is that makes us individuals.
Learn More: Mrs. Girard
5. How To Be Chinese by Celeste Ng
Explore culture and identity with this offering from acclaimed author, Celeste Ng. When Mackenzie heads off for college she is keen to connect with her Chinese heritage. Having been adopted into a white American family, she finds her journey in discovering and connecting with this aspect of her identity to be a complicated one. The themes of belonging and culture are sure to open up far-reaching discussions in your class.
Learn More: Prezi
6. Names/Nombres by Julia Alvarez
A touching ode to the power of names and the identity they carry. When Julia Alvarez moves back to New York after spending 10 years living in the Dominican Republic she reflects on the many names and nicknames she is called. The tale is an examination of the origins, pronunciation, and importance of names, and is a super way for you to invite your kiddies to share the stories behind each of their own names.
Learn More: YouTube
7. Boot Camp by Deborah Ellis
Step into the disciplined world of boot camps, exploring resilience and determination. A group of young offenders are attending a harsh rehabilitation program in exchange for shorter sentences for their crimes. Readers will delve into the group’s challenging experiences as they confront strict discipline, physical training, and emotional confrontations to change their ways.
Learn More: Values We Live By
8. Rules of the Game by Amy Tan
Checkmate! Waverly Jong is a young Chinese-American girl who discovers she has a prodigious talent for chess. As she rises through the ranks, she learns valuable lessons about strategy and navigating cultural expectations. The story delves into themes of identity, conflict, and the mother-daughter relationship. It’s perfect for exploring cultural identity, generational conflicts, and symbolism in literature with your kiddos.
Learn More: YouTube
9. Click Clack the Rattlebag by Neil Gaiman
Look no further for a spooky Halloween read! When a young boy asks his sister’s boyfriend to tell him a scary bedtime story, a tale about “click-clack” sounds and dark, unseen horrors is born. The story takes a twist that leaves your readers questioning reality. This thought-provoking exploration of suspense and fear is sure to have them on the edge of their seats!
Learn More: YouTube
10. The Scholarship Jacket by Marta Salinas
Martha is an excellent student and has earned a scholarship jacket, which she desperately wants to wear during her graduation. However, when she’s told she’ll need to pay $15 towards the jacket, her family’s financial situation threatens to put an end to her dream. The story deals with themes of integrity and social justice, which is sure to make it a conversation starter in your classroom.
Learn More: Washington Township
11. The Medicine Bag by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve
Explore the importance of cultural heritage with this short story. Martin is of Sioux heritage and lives with his non-Native American adoptive family. When his grandfather, Joe Iron Shell, arrives for a visit, he brings with him a special medicine bag, a sacred family heirloom. Along with Martin, your readers will learn about the importance of cultural heritage and the connections between generations.
Learn More: YouTube
12. We Have Always Lived On Mars by Cecil Castellucci
Travel to a distant world! Set in a Martian colony, this tale follows Naomi when one day she is surprised to find she can breathe the air on Mars. As she investigates further she learns a startling truth about the planet they call home that will change everything. This exciting dystopian sci-fi read will hook even the most reluctant of your readers.
Learn More: Tor
13. Stop the Sun by Gary Paulsen
Traverse a young boy’s quest for answers, diving into the shadows of the past. Terry is curious about his dad’s pain, his nightmares, and why he never talks about his time serving in Vietnam. Through the story, Terry tries to empathize and understand what his dad has been through. This tale offers your students an emotional look at the mental scars war can leave on veterans.
Learn More: Xpress English
14. The Treasure of Lemon Brown by Walter Dean Myers
Unearth treasures that are hidden in unlikely places in this story that emphasize the value of life’s simple gifts. When Greg meets Lemon Brown, a homeless man with a treasure trove of memories and keepsakes his tale of the past, his lost son, and a harmonica with sentimental value teaches Greg about the true value of life’s treasures. This heartwarming tale is sure to be a class favorite.
Learn More: Storyboard That
15. The Ransom of Red Chief by O. Henry
The Ransom of Red Chief is a humorous short story about two kidnappers who abduct a mischievous boy named Johnny, who turns the tables on them with his antics, so much so that the kidnappers must pay to send him back! It’s a funny look into the notion of crime and shows your kiddos that sometimes, crime doesn’t pay.
Learn More: American Literature
16. Born Worker by Gary Soto
Have your readers delve into the industrious spirit of youth, showcasing the drive and determination kids possess. This story revolves around José, a young Mexican-American boy working at a produce market with his mom. José’s experiences of hard work and aspirations shed light on the struggles and dreams of an immigrant family.
Learn More: YouTube
17. The Fun They Had by Isaac Asimov
Venture into a futuristic classroom! In a world where traditional schools have been replaced by robot teachers in each home, Margie and Tommy discover an old book and learn that children were once taught by a human teacher in a classroom. Margie begins to compare the two and wishes that she had a human teacher. Your kiddies will love this futuristic take on learning and could even link the plot of this 1951 story to the distance learning that took place in 2020.
Learn More: The Kubrick Site
18. Geraldine Moore The Poet by Toni Cade Bambara
Celebrate the discovery of a hidden talent, as a young girl finds her voice. The story revolves around a young African-American girl named Geraldine Moore who is a talented poet. Her teacher, Miss Curry, recognizes her potential and encourages Geraldine to participate in a poetry recitation contest despite her initial hesitation. A super story to remind your kiddos that you believe in their potential!
Learn More: YouTube
19. Miss Awful by Arthur Cavanaugh
“Miss Awful” by Arthur Cavanaugh is a relatable and captivating story for your kids that explores the transformative power of empathy. It follows Roger, a young boy as he navigates a daunting new school and a stern teacher, Miss Awful. As Roger unravels the layers of Miss Awful’s character, he learns important life lessons about compassion and the unexpected bonds that can form in the face of adversity.
Learn More: Xpress English
20. To Build a Fire by Jack London
Brave the icy wilderness with this next read! You’ll follow an unnamed protagonist in the harsh Yukon wilderness as he battles nature in the extreme cold. He faces a life-or-death struggle against freezing temperatures, showcasing the brutal power of nature and people’s resilience and will to survive.
Learn More: Story Of The Week
21. An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge by Ambrose Bierce
Delve into a tale where the lines between reality and illusion and blurred with a shocking twist. This poignant short story explores the mind of a Confederate sympathizer as he is about to be hanged during the Civil War. As he faces death, time seems to slow, and he embarks on a vivid, surreal escape journey. This somber story is a great way to spark discussion on tricky themes like capital punishment and war.
Learn More: American Literature
22. The Moustache by Robert Cormier
Journey into the realm of identity, where a simple facial feature evokes profound memories. Mike goes to visit his elderly grandmother in a nursing home, and when she mistakes him for his grandfather who died many years before, it gives him a new perspective on his family and on love. This story can prompt discussions with your kiddies to explore themes of guilt, aging, and family.
Learn More: Xpress English
23. The Black Cat by Edgar Allen Poe
Delve into the dark corridors of guilt and unreliable narration, where one man’s descent unveils shocking truths. After drinking heavily a man harms his beloved pet cat, sending him into a violent spiral and leading his life to unravel. This chilling tale for older kids highlights the consequences of one’s actions.
Learn More: Learning English
24. A Visit of Charity by Eudora Welty
Explore the difference between acts of charity and acts of self-interest with your students. A young girl, Marian, pays a visit to a nursing home in order to earn points as a Campfire Girl. Throughout her visit she grapples with feelings of unease as she interacts with the elderly residents, highlighting her self-interest and the disconnect between generations.
Learn More: YouTube
25. The Treasure in the Forest by H. G. Wells
Girl power! This story portrays a moment of empowerment in a girls’ school during the 1950s. When the teacher decides to let the girls take over the traditionally boys-only task of raising the flag, it challenges gender norms and ignites a sense of equality and self-worth among the students. It’s a super way to celebrate the power of change in your classroom.
Learn More: Ezi-Learning
26. The Wish by Roald Dahl
Explore the whimsical world of wishes, where every desire has its price. Peter unexpectedly discovers that he has the power to grant wishes and while initially, he uses it for personal gain, the consequences soon get out of hand. This story is a great way to explore the themes of moral responsibility with your kiddos.
Learn More: StudyLib
27. The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell
Plunge into a thrilling tale of survival, where the hunter becomes the hunted. This suspenseful short story is about a big-game hunter named Rainsford who becomes the hunted on an isolated island. He is pursued by General Zaroff, who finds hunting humans to be the ultimate challenge. It’s sure to be a gripping read for your class!
Learn More: YouTube
28. The Veldt by Ray Bradbury
Journey into a futuristic home with a virtual reality nursery! In the nursery, two children become fixated on a scene of the African wilderness where lions hunt prey, but the story takes a chilling twist that will shock both the children’s parents and your readers! This is a great story to spark discussions about technology and what happens if it goes too far!
Learn More: Slap Happy Larry
29. Thank You Ma’am by Langston Hughes
Traverse the streets of kindness, where a chance encounter leads to unexpected lessons. “Thank You Ma’am” tells the story of a chance encounter between a teenage boy, Roger, and a strong, compassionate woman, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones. She catches Roger attempting to steal her purse but responds with kindness, teaching him (and your readers) a valuable life lesson about trust and empathy.
Learn More: Genius
30. Gabriel-Ernest by Saki
Delve into the enigmatic world of a young boy with a wild secret. This darkly humorous short story is about a teenage boy named Gabriel-Ernest, who initially appears charming but is actually a dangerous werewolf. Follow his interactions with a skeptical adult, who becomes increasingly unnerved by Gabriel-Ernest’s sinister nature. A super read for your middle schoolers all about discovering what lies beneath!
Learn More: YouTube
31. After ‘While by Cherie Dimaline
Embark on an emotional journey of healing and rediscovery. Two Indigenous characters, Nanabush and Fox, discuss life, death, and the nature of existence. They contemplate the passage of time, the cyclical nature of life, and the spiritual aspects of their world, offering insights into indigenous philosophy and beliefs.
Learn More: CBC
32. Fish Cheeks by Amy Tan
Relish in a heartwarming tale of culture and adolescence, where acceptance starts at the dinner table. Amy, a young Chinese-American girl, is embarrassed when her family invites her crush, a white American boy, to a Christmas dinner featuring traditional Chinese cuisine. She becomes embarrassed by her family’s traditional Chinese meal and their customs, prompting a lesson in embracing her cultural identity.
Learn More: Study.com
33. Amigo Brothers by Piri Thomas
Step into the boxing ring of friendship, where loyalty is tested and bonds are unbreakable. As best friends Benny and Willy prepare to compete against each other in a boxing match, they grapple with the challenge of fighting their dearest friend. This story is a relatable tale for your kiddos all about the complexities of friendships and competition.
Learn More: SlideServe
34. So What Are You Anyway by Lawrence Hill
Navigate the complexities of identity, race, and belonging in a world that craves labels. When a young girl is flying on a plane, she finds herself sitting next to a couple who demand to know what she “is”. Having never thought about it, the girl becomes upset at not being able to give the couple an answer they seem to be happy with. This thought-provoking piece is sure to start up some discussion in your class!
Learn More: Weebly
35. Lob’s Girl by Joan Aiken
Have your kiddos journey alongside a devoted dog and his unwavering loyalty, even beyond the confines of life. In this touching story, Sandy finds Lob the dog at the beach and brings him home. He is soon a part of the family, but when disaster strikes Lob’s absolute devotion to Sandy becomes apparent.
Learn More: YouTube
36. On The Bridge by Todd Strasser
Delve into this tale of adolescence, where bravado meets vulnerability. 16-year-old Jack Manzi navigates a troubled adolescence as he grapples with difficult family dynamics and faces choices that could define his future. His life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with a mysterious man on a bridge, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Learn More: SlidePlayer
37. The Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allan Poe
Delve deep into catacombs of revenge, where a thirst for retribution leads to chilling consequences. Montresor seeks revenge on his foe, Fortunato. He lures Fortunato into the catacombs with the promise of a cask of fine wine where he then chains Fortunato up and walls him in, sealing his horrifying doom. A haunting tale that allows your readers to explore the darker sides of human nature.
Learn More: Sherry Notes
38. A Mountain Legend by Jordan Wheeler
Scale the heights of ancestral tales, where legends and truths intertwine. When a group of Indigenous people go on a journey to find a sacred mountain, they are faced with challenges and tests of their endurance and spiritual connection. The story underscores the importance of tradition, culture, and the enduring power of legends in Native American communities.
Learn More: Mrs Auchinleck’s English Treasure Trove
39. Sol Painting by Meg Medina
Let your kiddies read this short story about Sol; a girl grappling with change after her grandfather’s death. She copes by painting a mural of her Miami neighborhood, Little Havana. This story highlights art as a healing and transformative force, helping Sol to navigate her grief and preserve her cultural heritage.
Learn More: YouTube
40. Seventh Grade by Gary Soto
Navigate the maze of adolescence and middle school crushes! Despite his anxiety and nervousness, Victor tries his best to impress his crush, Teresa in this cringe-worthy story. It’s a relatable and hilarious read for your kiddos as they follow Victor’s embarrassing attempts to strike up a conversation with his crush!
Learn More: Storyboard That
41. Scout’s Honor by Avi
Venture into the wilderness of friendship, challenges, and unexpected revelations. The story follows a group of Boy Scouts as they head off on a camping trip and soon realize that they are unprepared and are all a bit nervous! This story is the perfect way to illustrate the importance of asking for help when you need it for your little readers.
Learn More: Xpress English
42. Lose Now, Pay Later by Carol Farley
Delve into the world of science fiction with this weird and wonderful short story! Two friends are delighted when a new store opens at the mall offering free candy, and are even more impressed when a machine to lose the weight appears soon after. Some others are a bit more skeptical though, leaving the story wide open to your kiddos’ interpretation!
Learn More: YouTube
43. The All-American Slurp by Lensey Namioka
“The All-American Slurp” is a funny short story about a Chinese immigrant family’s awkward experience with American table manners. The story follows the narrator’s family as they struggle with the unfamiliar food and dining etiquette of an American meal. This humorously highlights the contrast between Chinese and American dining traditions, highlighting the challenges of cultural assimilation to your kiddos.
Learn More: Xpress English
44. Of Roses and Kings by Melissa Marr
Wander through a magical realm where love and sacrifice reign supreme. In this enchanting short story, Roiben seeks to save his mortal love from a highly dangerous situation. The story offers readers a glimpse into the world of faeries and the choices they make for the people they care about. Your readers will be spellbound!
Learn More: Tor
45. Sound of Thunder by Ray Bradbury
Leap through time, where a single step can change the course of history. Your kiddies will be enthralled as they follow the story of some time travelers who hunt dinosaurs to alter history. However, when a hunter steps off the designated path, he kills a butterfly, setting off a chain reaction of changes in the future. The story explores the butterfly effect and the profound impact of seemingly small decisions.
Learn More: YouTube
46. The Night the Ghost Got In by James Thurber
Delight in a night of hauntings and hilarious misunderstandings. The chaotic incident begins when James hears footsteps downstairs and finds no one there. This then sets off a whole chain of hilarious events within the house, involving the whole family. Your kids will laugh as they follow the unpredictable events and ponder if there really was a ghost involved at all!
Learn More: My Short Stories
47. The Sniper by Liam O’Flaherty
Let your learners reflect on how the intensity of war leads people to make split-second decisions that bear life-altering consequences. Set during the Irish Civil War, the story follows a Republican sniper on a rooftop in Dublin as he engages in a tense standoff with an enemy sniper. A surprise twist reveals the tragic consequences of the conflict.
Learn More: American Literature
48. The Test by Theodore Thomas
This futuristic, dystopian short story examines themes of power and control from the state. Robert is taking a driver’s test under a powerful form of hypnosis when he gets into an accident, and although he performs well on the test he fails and is taken away by the staff. This somber and serious story is sure to bring up lots for your students to discuss!
Learn More: Tes
49. “The Cactus” by O. Henry
A man loses love over a misunderstood gift when he misses the meaning due to lying about speaking Spanish. The tale unfolds to reveal that sometimes, love is lost in translation! O. Henry showcases his trademark wit and irony, turning the mundane into the extraordinary. This clever tale is sure to be a hit with your learners.
Learn More: YouTube
50. “How Much Land Does a Man Need?” by Leo Tolstoy
In this Russian tale by Tolstoy, an insatiable thirst for land sends a man on a boundary-pushing adventure. Fueled by a promise of unlimited acres, he races against the sun, only to meet a very harsh reckoning. This deeply layered fable is perfect for delving into the pitfalls of human greed with your kiddos.
Learn More: Slide Serve
51. “Charles” by Shirley Jackson
Jackson weaves a tale of a young boy who crafts an imaginary troublemaker, Charles, to captivate his parents and classmates. The boy’s mother is both fascinated and horrified by Charles’ exploits, unaware that it’s, in fact, her son’s mischievous alter-ego! This tale does a super job of peeling back the layers of childhood imagination and parental naïveté.
Learn More: Slap Happy Larry
52. “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
This story explores the 19th-century practice of “rest cure” which was a treatment for post-natal depression. A stifling room with eerie yellow wallpaper becomes the mental prison of a woman prescribed “rest” for her health. As the days pass, she grows increasingly obsessed with the wallpaper’s intricate patterns, suspecting something—or someone—is lurking behind it!
Learn More: Feminism In India
53. “The Sound of Summer Running” by Ray Bradbury
In this tale, young Douglas Spaulding can’t resist the temptation of getting some brand-new sneakers for summer. The story paints a vivid tapestry of childhood joys and simple pleasures, all through the lens of a shoe store. Your young readers will find themselves able to identify elements of this story in memories of their own summers!
Learn More: Weebly
54. “The Flowers” by Alice Walker
Alice Walker crafts a harrowing journey for young protagonist Myop. As she discovers a decaying body in an unsettling forest, Myop’s innocence is irrevocably lost. Your readers will be captivated by this raw perspective on African-American youth and the harsh realities they sometimes face.
Learn More: YouTube
55. “The Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst
In a Southern swampland, two brothers grapple with their complex relationship. The younger brother is born unwell, which fills the older brother with resentment, as he longs for a sibling to run around and play with. This emotional tale about love and loss will move your kiddos with its unfolding drama and its devastating climax.
Learn More: Ms. Herda’s Class
56. “The Landlady” by Roald Dahl
Immerse your kiddies into a deceptively inviting inn run by a mysterious landlady. She’s got a special tea, and the bed and breakfast itself seems to have its own secrets. They’ll revel in the creepy ambiance and shocking twists!
Learn More: Issuu
57. “Through the Tunnel” by Doris Lessing
In this tale, young Jerry confronts both his own limitations and the natural world when he decides to swim through an underwater tunnel. This is a tale about courage and the journey from boyhood to maturity. You can use this story to open up discussions about meeting and conquering personal challenges with your class!
Learn More: YouTube
58. “Lamb to the Slaughter” by Roald Dahl
This dark tale by Roald Dahl tells a story of love gone horribly wrong. When a pregnant woman hears that her husband is leaving her, a frozen leg of lamb becomes a very unconventional weapon. This darkly comedic tale follows as the woman concocts a plan to ensure she gets away with the murder! Your kids will be hooked!
Learn More: Xpress English
59. “The Pedestrian” by Ray Bradbury
Imagine a future where simply walking is an act of rebellion! Leonard Mead prefers the moonlit streets to the glowing screens that imprison his neighbors. In this futuristic world where human connection is obliterated by technology, Leonard’s nightly walks put him under the ominous lens of an authoritarian regime.
Learn More: YouTube
60. “Marigolds” by Eugenia W. Collier
Have your readers delve into Lizabeth’s youthful world, marked by the struggles of the Great Depression. As marigolds bloom, so does she, in ways that are both beautiful and heartbreaking. This coming-of-age tale serves as a memorable historical snapshot for your students.
Learn More: Slide Player
61. “The Third Wish” by Joan Aiken
A man receives three wishes from a magical swan and must navigate the difficulties that come with enchanted gifts. The tale will have your young readers wrapped up in folklore, fantasy, and unexpected life lessons. This spellbinding story is more than just another tale about granting wishes.
Learn More: Prezi
62. “All Summer in a Day” by Ray Bradbury
Travel to Venus for this interesting sci-fi story! On this distant planet, the sun only emerges for a few hours every seven years, and a young girl named Margot misses it. Just before the sun emerges, her cruel classmates lock her in a closet. The story delves into themes of jealousy and regret in a way that your kids can relate to.
Learn More: YouTube
63. “Zoo” by Edward D. Hoch
A large spaceship carrying an interplanetary zoo touches down on Earth, and humans excitedly pay the $1 admission fee to see the strange horse-spider aliens on board. After the spaceship leaves and returns to its native planets, a shocking reversal of perspectives reveals that humans were in fact the zoo attraction! This clever narrative examines themes of human presumption and perspective for your kids to explore.
Learn More: Xpress English
64. “There Will Come Soft Rains” by Ray Bradbury
An automated house continues its daily functions, ignorant of the nuclear apocalypse that has wiped out its owners. The story offers a chilling look into the potential future of technology if it’s left uncontrolled. Challenge your kids with this invitation to question what truly matters in a world left after humanity is gone.
Learn More: Internet Archive
65. “Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut
In a future where everyone is forced to be equal, one man dares to defy the restrictions! His defiance is short-lived but raises questions about the nature and value of individuality. This exciting narrative is sure to ignite a classroom debate about government, society, and the human spirit.
Learn More: YouTube
66. “The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant
In a Parisian backdrop, a woman borrows a super expensive necklace to feel aristocratic but loses it! The pursuit to replace the lost necklace consumes years of her life. Explore irony with your readers as you examine the conclusion of this story- a twist that will challenge their understanding of value.
Learn More: YouTube
67. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
Settle into this quaint and picturesque village with your kiddos. On the surface, the annual lottery resembles a community celebration, but as the story goes on they’ll soon realize why none of the residents want to win this particular lottery. Explore the concept of a “mob mentality” with this super story that has a chilling ending.
Learn More: Thought Co
68. “The Happy Prince” by Oscar Wilde
In a town square, the statue of the Happy Prince stands, adorned in gold and jewels. The Prince tells the Swallow that he is saddened by the suffering and sadness of passersby. Helped by the Swallow, he is stripped of his gold and jewels to distribute to the town’s people. Your readers will love this beautiful tale that Wilde weaves, serving as a testament to the spirit of altruism.
Learn More: Kevein Books and Reviews
69. “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry
Della and Jim, caught in the delicate dance of love and financial struggle, search for a Christmas miracle. Each sells their most cherished possession, unaware their partner does the same, and in a twist of poetic fate, they unknowingly end up gifting back each other’s possessions. Why not dive into this bittersweet festive tale of love this holiday season?
Learn More: Little Book, Big Story
70. “The Blue Cross” by G.K. Chesterton
Police chief Valentin and mastermind criminal Flambeau engage in a battle of wits, each evenly matched in their intellect. As Flambeau attempts to steal valuable Blue Cross from London, a Catholic priest named Father Brown becomes involved and his intuitive grasp of human psychology ultimately triumphs! Your readers will love the fast-paced narrative and the clever mind games played by the characters!
Learn More: YouTube
71. “A Retrieved Reformation” by O. Henry
An ex-convict seeks a clean slate when he’s released from prison and falls in love. After a few robberies, he manages to put his criminal past behind him, despite a detective being hot on his trail. But his past skills as a safe-cracker come back to haunt him when he must use his skills to rescue a trapped child. Your students will be captivated by the suspenseful narrative that will keep them guessing till the very end!
Learn More: Amazon
72. “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” by James Thurber
Walter Mitty escapes his dull reality through grand daydreams where he’s the hero. From a world-class surgeon to a fighter pilot, his imaginary lives are endless. Have your kiddos challenge his tale as they find the line between his fantasies and his real life is poignantly blurred.
Learn More: English Online
73. “The Interlopers” by Saki
Dive into this chilling tale of human stubbornness meeting the indifferent force of nature. Two feuding landowners get trapped under a fallen tree in a remote forest. Forced to ensure each others’ company, they actually find common ground and manage to get along. However, it’s too late as nature delivers its own conclusion on matters.
Learn More: Owlcation
74. “Araby” by James Joyce
This story perfectly captures the excitement which sometimes skews young perceptions in the heat of the moment. Have your kids read about a young protagonist who decides to buy an exotic gift for his crush from the enigmatic Araby bazaar. Will his trip to Araby be everything he hopes or will he leave empty-handed?
Learn More: Medium
75. “The Last Leaf” by O. Henry
Johnsy, a woman plagued by illness, decides that she will die when the last leaf clinging to a vine outside her window falls. Meanwhile, an elderly artist paints the leaf, eternalizing it on the wall, thus giving the woman the will to live. O. Henry’s narrative turns a simple painted leaf into a symbol of profound sacrifice in this touching tale.
Learn More: YouTube
76. “The Open Window” by Saki
Are you scared of ghosts? A clever Vera spins a ghost story so convincing it drives her guest, Mr. Nuttel, into a state of panic. She exploits his gullibility, painting a vivid picture of phantoms. The duped Mr. Nuttel bolts, offering viewers a psychological comedy at its finest.
Learn More: Haiku Deck
77. “The Monkey’s Paw” by W.W. Jacobs
Upon laying hands on a mystical monkey’s paw, the White family is thrown into a torrent of sorrows and tragedy. Their wishes become curses and each one becomes a nightmare filled with unwanted outcomes. Your readers will be hooked as the suspenseful narrative unfolds, examining the concepts of karma and cosmic justice.
Learn More: Chess
78. “The Destructors” by Graham Greene
Meet the Wormsley Common gang, a group of kids dead set on dismantling an elderly man’s home from the inside out. They go about their strange mission with a surprising level of expertise, not for loot, not for glory, but simply because they can! Greene exposes the anarchy that can lie within the adolescent mindset- something I’m sure your readers will relate to!
Learn More: Curve Learn
79. “The Adventure of the Speckled Band” by Arthur Conan Doyle
Holmes and Watson are summoned by a distressed Helen Stoner, fearful for her life due to inexplicable events surrounding her sister’s death. Mysteries unravel in layers, clues assemble like clockwork, and the truth is far stranger than fiction. Your students will love the opportunity to dive into the classic Sherlock Holmes adventure stories!
Learn More: Amazon
80. “The Handsomest Drowned Man in the World” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
A small coastal village finds itself forever changed when a drowned stranger washes ashore. As the people prepare a funeral for him, they give him a name, a family, and a place in their community. He sparks a change in the village as people decide to make their homes more welcoming in the hope that he will return one day. Marquez infuses the tale with a touch of the surreal, making the everyday mystical.
Learn More: Literary Hub
81. “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County” by Mark Twain
Jim, a compulsive trains a frog to jump in order to win a bet. However, his frog, primed for victory, gets sabotaged in a moment of cunning deceit by a stranger. This tale explores human foolishness and the risks of betting when the odds are weighed against you!
Learn More: YouTube
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